15 June 2018

Mendi in flames as rioters threaten more destruction

The Air Niugini Dash 8 totally destroyed after its undercarriage was shot out by gunfire and it was torched by rioters

MATHIAS KIN

KUNDIAWA - Mendi town is in chaos after disgruntled supporters damaged the undercarriage of an Air Niugini Dash 8 aircraft by gunfire then burnt the plane to ashes.

It seems a national court decision on the disputed return for Southern Highlands regional MP William Powi, a member of Peter O'Neill's ruling People's National Congress, angered the numerous supporters of losing candidates Joseph Kobol and Bernard Kaku.

The rioters also burned down the local court house and William Powi's residence.

We are hearing through our bush drums that this is the beginning of other serious destruction today and in future days.

I will keep readers posted on further developments.

Meanwhile, Radio New Zealand reports that the PNG government is set to declare a state of emergency in the Southern Highlands.

The situation in Mendi is tense and the town was in lockdown overnight.

According to police, it was yesterday's national court ruling upholding Mr Powi's 2017 election which sparked the rampage.

O'Neill said a state of emergency will be declared and additional security forces deployed to the area.

"The actions we have seen today in Mendi are an absolute disgrace," O'Neill said last night.

"There is no place in in politics for this type of behaviour, and leaders involved with this activity will be held to account."